The view of the grassy hill and the start of cool temperature served as an appetizer for a fresh meal of amazing scenery ahead of us as we were approaching Baguio City. But as we moved on I was surprised to see that it was now highly urbanized with houses made of modern architecture and with fewer pine trees. And there was heavy traffic along the way.
Benguet after the rain
In haste to reach Benguet on a 5-hour trip only, we left Pasay City around 5:00 am. My hubby and my son were on the alternate drive. Thanks to NLEX, SLEX, and TPLEX for making our trip fast.
I was used to Baguio City’s provincial appeal way back several years ago and these changes somewhat bothered me. But this should not dampen my mood. We’re here to chill, relax, and be invigorated as we will visit again the city’s famous tourist spots.
Benguet’s mountain top
We are going to Benguet to fetch my sister, her family, my mother, and my daughter who already spent a one-week vacation chilling around in the coolest place in the country. This was part of my sister’s refreshing vacation coming from California apart from visiting their house in Benguet. I thank Noel, my brother in law for the invitation and for a wonderful three-day stay in their house.
We arrived in Benguet a little late after lunch. My mom cooked a delectable chop suey with cauliflower, carrots, young corn, cabbages, and Baguio beans. With banana and watermelon for dessert. All were freshly bought in a nearby mini-market. The meal was very appetizing and very healthy!
it’s Pao’s moment chillin’ around
After our hearty meal and a happy conversation, everyone took comfort in finding each place to settle for the afternoon rest. There was a downpour afterward which made it much cooler. My Mama was sitting near the window reading my favorite Nancy Drew pocketbook. My hubby and Pao slept in the room. My sister was watching TV. Our two little girls were playing with their dolls. Noel was busy with house repairs.
my hubby was chillin’ around too
I found my serene moment on the balcony. My eyes were feasting a bucolic setting, a farm with verdant vegetation, and lots of pine trees. This is indeed a perfect day to relax, a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
the bucolic view in our window
I just can’t help it. The weather was so cool, so refreshing and so I doze off too.
The rain stopped at 4:00 pm. Wearing sweatshirts and cap, me, my hubby, and Pao went for a serene afternoon walk on a hill a few distances away from the house. It was so refreshing to see tall pine trees everywhere. I would have thought we were in the middle of a virgin forest if not for the concrete road.
me with the pine trees
Benguet is ringed by green valleys and rolling hills. This is what I missed here, its natural beauty, and its cool temperature. It never fails to impress me.
But when we reached the view deck I was surprised to see houses erected on mountain tops, almost dominating the beautiful landscape. Development is relentless. It was crowded now compare to the last time we visited Benguet. What happens?
It was an eyesore and it saddened me to see the changes. But who was I to stop these people from invading this beautiful mountain view? Anyway, we went here to cherish the refreshing breeze of Benguet which I was deprived of this blessing in Manila. The peaceful afternoon brought a sublime respite from the noise of the metro.
peaceful afternoon
We continued walking and stopped on the highest part of the hill. Our stroll is definitely worth the view. I was delighted to see fleeting white clouds hugging defensively the pine trees. Savoring and embracing nature’s finest gift. The view was perfect to heal a weary soul. We went home when darkness started to embrace the cool surrounding.
Dinner came. Fresh veggies were again served on the table. No crispy and deep-fried viands. It was healthy and fresh food. Good for our bodies. Fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, cool climate. How I love Benguet so much.
After another hearty meal, we went to the balcony. We sat in mono-block chairs swapping stories. The night was so cold and so tranquil. It was so nice to gaze at the stars above and feel the moment. There’s enough solitude to contemplate on many things and to thank God for.
As I went to bed, my buddies were snuggling against the warmth of the blanket. All windows were closed. There’s no electric fan in the apartelle and yet it was so cold. The night owl I was the last one to surrender. Thanks to the lizards crawling in the attic, it helped my eyes from drooping fast to sleep.
Good night Benguet!
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